iStockA ban on consuming alcohol brought in during the coronavirus pandemic is to remain “for the forseeable future” on Scotrail trains.
The national operator said it had agreed with the Scottish Government to keep the prohibition.
It said the policy will be reviewed as part of the Scottish Government’s National Conversation on Rail.
Brought in on November 16, 2020, alcohol was banned in stations and on trains, and people showing “specific signs of intoxication” were not permitted to travel.
At the time, ScotRail said: “We have found that people who are extremely drunk, or acting in a disorderly manner, show complete disregard towards Covid-19 precautions such as wearing a mask and keeping a physical distance from others.”
The ban is supported by the British Transport Police, who ScotRail said would assist railway staff to ensure the rules are adhered to.
Railway Byelaw 4 (2) states that a passenger with intoxicating liquor can be prevented from entering, or be asked to leave, the railway.
Passengers have expressed varying opinions on the ban.
One poster on Twitter wrote: “To all those complaining about this, ever had your face licked by a drunk guy on public transport because you wont ‘give him a smile?’
“Ever had a big group of lads on their way for a night out start on you and make your entire journey home menacing?”
Another said: “Does this ban include a small bottle of wine with a picnic packed to enjoy on the journey from say Glasgow to Fort William?
“Are you aware just how backward this makes Scotland look? Imagine explaining this to an international visitor.”
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